The food you serve at your wedding will consume a significant portion of your budget, so it’s important to not only find the right caterer but to allocate the necessary resources to pay for their services. Before you start meeting with caterers, it’s crucial to decide on your potential food budget.

   Don’t just pick a random caterer from the phone book; instead, seek recommendations from friends and family. References are invaluable when it comes to finding a caterer who can deliver quality food and service. If you can’t get personal recommendations, think back to events you’ve attended where the catering stood out and consider what made the experience memorable. If you come up with more than three caterers to consider, that’s fine; you can narrow it down to your top three choices later.

 

Once you’re ready to begin your search, here’s a list of questions to ask to help you find the right caterer for your wedding:

 

Availability and Firsthand Experience

   Ask the caterer if they are available on your event date. If they are, request to visit a wedding or event they are catering to see their work firsthand. This will give you a better sense of their service style and the quality of their food.

 

Licenses, Credentials, and References

   Always ask for the caterer’s licenses, credentials, and references, and take the time to verify them. It’s important to feel confident about the professional qualifications of the company you hire. Once you’ve done your research, narrow your list down to three potential caterers.

 

Level of Involvement and Services

   Find out how involved the caterer will be. Who will be in charge on the day of your event? If rentals are needed, ask the caterer if they provide them or if they can recommend a vendor. If you haven’t secured an event venue yet, a good caterer might also provide a venue referral.

 

Budget and Services Included

   Discuss your budget and guest count with each caterer. Ask what services are included in their packages, such as staffing, linens, table settings, and any additional services that might be part of your wedding menu. It’s crucial to understand exactly what you’re getting for your money.

 

Tasting and Menu Selection

   Once you’ve decided on a menu, request a sample tasting. After tasting the offerings from each of your top three caterers, select the one that feels like the best fit for both the food and your personal comfort. It’s important that you feel confident in your choice.

 

   Never choose a caterer solely based on articles or recommendations from others. Trust your own instincts and make sure you’re comfortable working with the caterer. You’ll need to collaborate to ensure you’re getting exactly what you want, and it’s important to feel at ease asking for any changes or adjustments.

Remember, you want to get the most value for your money, so don’t settle for anything less than complete satisfaction!

Posted in Catering, Wedding Planning, Wedding Reception, Wedding Tips
Tags: catering tips, Her Wedding Planner, Her Wedding Planner tips and advice